The German Federal President, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, concluded a brief visit to Italy and the Vatican State on Monday. The trip marked his first meeting with Pope Leo XIV, who assumed his position in May.
The visit began with a private audience at the Vatican, lasting approximately one hour. The meeting initially took place between Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost and President Steinmeier. Subsequently, Elke Büdenbender, the President’s wife, joined the discussion. The agenda focused on the current condition of the Church in Germany and a broader exchange concerning global challenges.
Following the Vatican engagement, President Steinmeier’s itinerary included a visit to the Community of Sant’Egidio in Rome. This organization undertakes extensive social outreach initiatives worldwide. Further discussions were scheduled with representatives from several United Nations agencies, including the World Food Programme (WFP), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
President Steinmeier returned to Berlin in the early evening.
